Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour Pinel & Tintamarre Islands for CRUISE SHIP GUESTS

Imagine zooming across the Caribbean waters in a sleek speedboat, feeling the spray of the sea as you hop from one stunning spot to another—welcome to the Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour of Pinel & Tintamarre Islands. For just about $139 per person, this roughly six-hour experience offers a lively, intimate way to see some of St. Maarten’s most beautiful and accessible sites. Led by an experienced captain and limited to a small group—usually no more than 16—you’ll enjoy personalized attention, expert insights, and plenty of time to explore.

What we love about this tour is the variety of stops, combining snorkeling, beach lounging, and sightseeing—an excellent way to make the most of your limited cruise time. Plus, the small group size means no long waits or crowds, just a laid-back vibe and the freedom to ask questions or jump into the water whenever you like. The lunch on Pinel Island is another big plus: fresh, beachside food with a view, paired with unlimited drinks to keep you refreshed.

A potential consideration? The marina fee of $10 per person is not included in the tour price, so be prepared to pay cash on-site. Also, the boat ride can be a bit bouncy if the seas are choppy, which might bother those with mobility issues or a sensitivity to motion. Still, if you’re seeking a fun, authentic way to see St. Maarten’s highlights away from large cruise excursions, this tour hits the mark.

This adventure suits travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, love snorkeling and marine life, and want a personalized tour that combines scenery, culture, and a little adventure. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a lively, engaging environment will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group setting: Limited to 16 travelers for personalized service.
• Diverse stops: Snorkeling at Creole Rock, Tintamarre Island with sea turtles, beachside lunch at Pinel Island.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable captains who share insights about the island and waters.
• All-inclusive drinks: Unlimited beer, soda, and water onboard.
• Flexible snorkeling: Use of snorkeling gear and floating devices included.
• Value for money: Combines multiple activities, scenic views, and a tasty lunch for a reasonable price.

An In-Depth Look at This St. Maarten Speedboat Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your adventure begins at Dock Maarten Chesterfield Wharf in Philipsburg, where a friendly crew greets you and hands out the mobile tickets. The boats are well-maintained, and the atmosphere is relaxed, hinting at the fun that awaits. Once aboard your speedboat, you’ll immediately notice the small group size—a significant advantage. It means more space to stretch out, more personalized attention, and a better chance to ask your captain questions.

The tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you a perfect morning to beat the crowds. Expect a quick cruise past Simpson Bay Bridge and the Dutch side’s luxurious lagoon, where yachts of all sizes are on display. The captain will point out notable sights, like the impressive marina in Marigot and Fort Louis, giving a glimpse into the island’s French influence.

First Stop: Tintamarre Island

After a scenic cruise along the coast, the boat pulls up at Tintamarre Island, an uninhabited paradise with a fascinating past—once ruled by a king, with its own navy and airline. Now, it’s a protected reserve known for its marine turtles and clear waters. The reviews highlight this as a favorite part of the day—”swimming with turtles at Tintamarre Island” is a common delight.

Here, you can jump into the warm, calm sea to snorkel among the turtles and tropical fish. The quiet, untouched vibe makes it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s about 45 minutes on the island, giving ample time to swim, sunbathe, or just soak in the beautiful surroundings. The feedback from travelers confirms this stop is a “10/10 experience” and “a must-do for sea lovers.”

Next Up: Creole Rock Snorkeling

From Tintamarre, you cruise over to Creole Rock, famed as the best snorkeling site in the area. Located right in Grand Case Bay, this spot offers vibrant coral reefs filled with tropical fish and other marine life. The guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making sure everyone gets a good look at the underwater world.

Snorkeling gear (masks, fins, snorkels) is provided, and floating devices are onboard to help beginners stay buoyant. Multiple reviews mention the abundance of fish and colorful coral, with one even noting, “we saw lots of colorful fish and swam with sea turtles.” The shallow waters make it accessible for most, including families with children.

Lunch on Pinel Island

After working up an appetite, everyone heads to Pinel Island, a small, charming spot with soft sand beaches and calm waters. The tour includes a hot beachside lunch at a local restaurant—an opportunity to try some Caribbean flavors without straying far from the water. As one traveler put it, “the lunch was delicious, and the setting perfect for unwinding.”

You’ll have about an hour here, which is enough to enjoy the gentle tide pools, feed the fish at La Samanna Resort’s beach, or just relax with a cool beverage from the onboard bar. Many reviews rave about the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere, making this stop a highlight.

Scenic Cruise and Celebrity-Spotting

Post-lunch, the boat takes you around the island on a scenic cruise, offering sweeping views of the mansions of Terre Basse and the striking red cliffs of Bay Rouge. As you drift along, keep your camera ready for the aircraft landing at Princess Juliana Airport—a spectacle that’s impossible to ignore and one of the tour’s signature moments. Several reviewers mention how close the planes fly overhead, creating a unique photo opportunity.

Final Stops: Beach and Yachting Views

The tour wraps up with a visit to Long Bay, where you can feed the fish or simply soak in the gorgeous surroundings. The boat then heads back toward Simpson Bay, passing by the mega-yachts and taking in more of the island’s luxe lifestyle.

Practical Details and What to Know

• Duration: About 6 hours, perfect for fitting into a cruise day without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Price: $139 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, lunch, unlimited drinks, and floating devices—good value considering the variety of activities.
• Extras: Marine park and docking fee of $10 per person payable in cash, so plan accordingly.
• Weather Dependence: The tour runs rain or shine; if weather cancels, you’ll get a full refund or alternative date.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate, with some jumping in and out of the boat and swimming involved.

Authenticity and Review Reflections

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Captain Nico and crew members such as Sammy and Julian, who are described as “friendly,” “informative,” and “safe.” The small-group size makes it feel more like a day with friends than a commercial tour, which many say enhances the overall experience.

The reviews also highlight how well the guides handle unexpected weather changes—noticing a storm, for example, and navigating safely through rain and high waves. The lively commentary about island history, local culture, and notable sights adds depth to the trip.

Value Analysis

At $139, this tour offers excellent value. You’re getting multiple snorkeling stops, a scenic cruise, a substantial lunch, and unlimited drinks—all within a manageable timeframe. For cruise passengers who want to see more of St. Maarten than just the port, this active, engaging trip brings the island to life in a short amount of time.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy snorkeling, boat rides, and small-group experiences. Families with kids, couples, or solo explorers will appreciate the friendly guides and relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect if you want to avoid large, cookie-cutter excursions and instead get a personalized, authentic taste of the island’s waters and scenery.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to combine adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor in one compact package, this Speed Boat & Snorkeling Tour of Pinel & Tintamarre Islands is a fantastic pick. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and variety of stops make it more than just a boat ride—it’s a chance to connect with St. Maarten’s natural and cultural charm.

Whether you’re snorkeling among sea turtles, relaxing on a quiet beach, or snapping photos of planes overhead, this tour delivers a lively and memorable Caribbean experience. It’s especially suitable for those who want genuine, personalized service and a day filled with fun, sun, and sea life.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment and floating devices are provided on the tour, making it easy to jump right in without extra fuss.

Is there a marine park fee?
Yes, there’s a $10 per person fee payable in cash at the marina—be sure to bring some small bills.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour departs at 9:30 am, perfect for avoiding the afternoon heat and giving you plenty of time back on your cruise.

Can I swim with turtles?
Absolutely. Tintamarre Island is a protected area known for its sea turtles, which are quite friendly and often swim right around snorkelers.

Is lunch included, and what’s served?
Yes, a beachside lunch is included. Reviewers mention the food is delicious, with some recommending the ribs. The setting is casual and scenic.

Will I see aircraft landings?
Yes, the boat cruises near Princess Juliana Airport, offering spectacular views of planes flying directly overhead—an iconic photo opportunity.

How big is the group?
Limited to 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, families with children have enjoyed this trip. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and snorkeling is accessible for most ages.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled only in case of severe weather; otherwise, it runs rain or shine. If canceled, you’ll receive a full refund or an alternative date.

This tour offers a lively, personal way to experience St. Maarten’s waters, with enough variety and comfort to satisfy most travelers seeking an escape from the cruise ship crowd. It’s an adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and plenty of fun in the sun—what more could you ask for?